Train Journey in the Hill Country
Endless Panoramic Views
Experience one of the most breathtaking train journeys in the world.
This train journey is recorded in the Guinness Books of Records as the one of the world’s best scenic train journeys. You can travel from Nanuoya to Ella through tea plantations and rolling hills on an old colonial train with endless panoramic views.
The train journey through Sri Lanka’s Hill Country is often described as one of the most scenic train rides in the world.1 It is an iconic experience, winding through lush tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, deep valleys, and over historic bridges.
Here is a guide to the most famous route:
1. The Iconic Route: Kandy to Ella
This section of the main railway line (which runs from Colombo to Badulla) is the most sought-after by travelers.
| Feature | Details |
| Full Section | Kandy to Ella |
| Duration | Approximately 6 to 7 hours (depending on the train service and delays). |
| The Scenery | The journey is a constantly shifting panorama of emerald-green tea estates, thick cloud forest, waterfalls cascading down the hillsides, and charming colonial-era railway stations. |
Key Stops and Highlights:
- Nanu Oya: The stop for the colonial town of Nuwara Eliya (“Little England”).3
- Haputale: A hill town offering spectacular views, and a starting point for the hike to Lipton’s Seat.4
- Ella: A popular backpacker and hiking hub, famous for Ella Rock and the Nine Arch Bridge.5
2. Famous Highlights on the Line
- Nine Arch Bridge: A spectacular viaduct made of brick and stone, located near Ella.6 Many travelers get off the train and hike to this spot for the iconic photograph.
- Demodara Loop: An engineering marvel where the railway track spirals around a mountain, passes under itself through a tunnel, and emerges on the other side.7
3. Essential Tips for the Journey
| Tip | Rationale |
| Book in Advance | Reserved seats (especially First and Second Class) on the Kandy-Ella/Ella-Kandy route sell out weeks or sometimes months in advance, particularly during peak season. Unreserved tickets are always available but mean standing in crowded carriages. |
| Best Side for Views | If traveling Kandy to Ella, try to sit on the right-hand side for the best panoramic views over the valleys and tea plantations. This is reversed if traveling Ella to Kandy (sit on the left). |
| Best Class to Choose | Second Class Reserved is often recommended. It offers comfortable seating, a reserved spot, and most importantly, open windows and doors (in most carriages) for the breeze and for taking photos. |
| Observation Saloon | A First Class carriage at the very end of some trains with a large panoramic rear window. It offers great views but the sealed glass can sometimes be dirty, making photography difficult. |
| Bring Your Own | Bring your own water, snacks, and cash. While vendors hop on at stations selling local treats like isso wade (prawn fritters) and fresh fruit, the selection can be limited. |
| Photo Opportunity | The famous photo of travelers hanging out of the train door is taken at your own risk. Be extremely careful, especially near tunnels and tight curves. |
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Train Journey in the Hill Country